Brent Swadley, co-founder of Swadley’s BBQ chain, spoke out for the first time since being indicted on felony charges, accusing the state of using his company as a political pawn. The allegations date back to a canceled contract with the State Tourism Department in 2022, leading to a lawsuit claiming Swadley’s BBQ presented false invoices and inflated claims. Swadley filed a lawsuit against the state, alleging that they are owed millions and that the state is at fault. The accusations resulted in a grand jury indictment of Swadley and two others on several felony charges. In a letter to the Attorney General, Swadley claimed that his company faced challenges and changes during construction, blaming the state for neglecting facilities. He accused officials of spreading false narratives for political gain and stated that the state owes them millions for self-funded projects and legal fees. Swadley’s attorneys are seeking to end the lawsuit, stating that the state owes them over $2.3 million. The Attorney General responded, saying Swadley will have his day in court, vowing to prosecute anyone defrauding Oklahoma taxpayers. The case highlights the complex legal and political issues surrounding state contracts and business operations.
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Company manipulated as a chess piece in political maneuvering
